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This month’s video, inspired by Star Wars, unfolded almost seamlessly.

With a rogue villain endangering the stability of global trade, the consequences seem to rest solely on the aggressor’s shoulders. You can watch the video here, or if you prefer reading, we have an extensive script below from the latest Star Wars episode: The Tariff Strikes Back.

The month commenced not with a whisper, but with the explosion of a trade war superweapon. US President Donald Trump, wielding tariffs as a tool, sought to transform the cosmic order, challenging years of international trade and jeopardizing the fragile alliances that maintain the economic universe.

The Empire’s declaration of universal tariffs sent shockwaves throughout the systems. Jedi economists warned against supply chain disruptions, rising inflation, and an impending recession.

However, just as the galaxy braced for despair, a glimmer of diplomacy appeared. The president’s tone softened; vague peace agreements were suggested with China, and assurances of stability from the Federal Reserve inspired investors with hope that the Death Star of protectionism might be dismantled, even if just temporarily.

In the Core Worlds of Europe, leaders steadied themselves. While economic growth forecasts were downgraded, their diversified economies and infrastructure investment projects offered grounds for optimism that they could weather the shockwave. Even as Germany, the industrial juggernaut, teetered on the brink of stagnation, whispers of resilience reverberated within the European Council.

Far to the East, the Empire of China remained steadfast. The Politburo implemented fiscal defenses, launching stimulus measures to strengthen its economy.

As its exports faced mounting challenges, the leadership opted for careful recalibration rather than outright retaliation. In the shadows, China readied its economy for a prolonged confrontation, fully aware that patience is a Jedi virtue.

Meanwhile, in the island nation of Japan, inflation began to stir from its slumber. The Bank of Japan, once comfortable in a realm of low yields, now confronted the task of adjusting without destabilizing the fleet. Rising energy costs and decreased subsidies drove core prices upward, compelling policymakers to navigate the uncertain hyperspace of monetary tightening.

In the frontier system of South Africa, internal unrest simmered. Suggestions to increase the VAT rate ignited tensions within the nascent government of national unity.

This political turmoil undermined confidence, sending the rand into a tumultuous spin. However, cooler heads prevailed—the tax increase was overturned, and the Grand National Unity remained intact, albeit precariously. Amidst the chaos, a lower-than-expected inflation reading provided the South African Reserve Bank with more room to ease its grip on interest rates.

Ultimately, April served as a reminder that while global markets may face turbulent times, they are driven by resilience, adaptability, and the ongoing struggle between upheaval and stability.

As the saga continues, all eyes shift to the next chapter, where data, diplomacy, and economic fate converge in the pursuit of global growth.

May the fundamentals be with you.

Brought to you by Corion Capital.

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